Y'all must read about this incredible kindness. The back story: You might recall that a few days ago, yet another neighbor found Percy and returned him to us. This guy, a young man, maybe early 20s, mentioned that he takes care of two dogs in the neighborhood and if ever I needed help with Percy I should let him know because he and his brother have just started a dog-walking business to make some extra money.

Today, home with a sick Ol and trying to get the house clean and ready for my sister, brother-in-law and nephew -LAMBY!- to arrive tomorrow, I felt like I'd treat myself and call on this guy. As a stay-at-home mom, I've never considered hiring a dog-walker because it seems wildly extravagant. I have my two legs and bought Percy, for the love. But, as I did two years ago when Tom was out of town, it snowed to beat sixty, the kids were home and I was sick, I considered that treating myself, helping myself, is sometimes the best thing to do. On that day, I said "Yes!" to the guys who came around offering to shovel my steps (though I did negotiate a better deal!). Today, I called Jose.

His brother came, walked Percy for twenty minutes and then refused even a dime. This guy doesn't know me from Adam, walked over in the middle of his day to take a small job, and then simply said, "It really was my pleasure to help you. Your son is sick and I just ate at Chipotle. It works for all of us."

I tried to pay him again, he refused again, and I then decided to simply accept the very sincere kindness he was offering. Really, that's the best return sometimes, to just accept grace with equal grace. I mean, how good do you sometimes feel doing something for someone else just because?

My dear friend, M, brought J home from school and walked him to the door just to check on us all. My heart is full right now. Thank you!